Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Earthquake Cake Recipe

★★★★★

4.6 from 125 reviews
  • Author: Ella
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 servings 1x

Description

Indulge in the rich and decadent Earthquake Cake, a layered dessert featuring a moist chocolate cake base interspersed with sweetened shredded coconut, chopped pecans, and a luscious cream cheese swirl topped with chocolate chips. This easy-to-make cake brings delightful combinations of texture and flavor perfect for any chocolate lover.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Batter

  • 15.25 oz Chocolate Cake Mix (Any standard mix will do)
  • 3 large Eggs (As instructed on the package)
  • 0.5 cup Vegetable Oil (Ensures a moist cake)
  • 1 cup Water (For hydration)

Filling and Toppings

  • 8 oz Cream Cheese (Softened and at room temperature)
  • 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter (Melted)
  • 2 cups Powdered Sugar (No substitutes recommended)
  • 1 cup Sweetened Shredded Coconut (Can be substituted or omitted)
  • 1 cup Chopped Pecans (Or walnuts/slivered almonds)
  • 1 cup Chocolate Chips (Variations welcome)

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
  2. Layer Coconut and Pecans: Evenly sprinkle the sweetened shredded coconut on the bottom of the baking dish. Next, add the chopped pecans on top of the coconut layer to create a crunchy, nutty base.
  3. Prepare Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, prepare the chocolate cake batter following the instructions on the cake mix package. This typically involves combining the cake mix with eggs, vegetable oil, and water. Once mixed to a smooth consistency, pour the batter evenly over the coconut and pecan layers in the baking dish.
  4. Make Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, blend the softened cream cheese, melted butter, and powdered sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This filling adds a sweet, tangy contrast to the rich chocolate base.
  5. Add Cream Cheese Dollops: Spoon dollops of the cream cheese mixture evenly over the chocolate batter. Using a knife or a skewer, gently swirl the cream cheese into the batter to create a marbled effect without fully blending the layers.
  6. Top with Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle the chocolate chips evenly over the top of the cake, adding an extra burst of chocolate flavor and texture.
  7. Bake the Cake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. The cake is done when the center is set but still slightly gooey, ensuring a moist and fudgy texture.
  8. Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the baking dish for about 15 minutes. Serve warm for the best indulgent experience.

Notes

  • The sweetened shredded coconut can be omitted or substituted with unsweetened if preferred.
  • Chopped pecans can be replaced with walnuts or slivered almonds for variety.
  • Use full-fat cream cheese softened to room temperature for best mixing results.
  • Ensure the cream cheese mixture is dolloped and gently swirled to maintain distinct layers in the cake.
  • Serving warm enhances the gooey texture and flavor intensity.
  • This recipe can be stored covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerated for longer storage.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: Earthquake Cake, Chocolate Cake, Cream Cheese Swirl, Coconut Cake, Pecan Cake, Dessert Recipe

Did you make this recipe?

Share a photo and tag us — we can't wait to see what you've made!

Find it online: https://delishwithella.com/earthquake-cake-recipe/